Incident Overview
A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the left engine backfired and began to run rough. The engine was shut down and the propeller was feathered. The pilot decided to return to the departure airport and land on the same runway.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the aircraft on the downwind leg at an altitude between 800 and 1,000 feet with the landing gear extended. As the aircraft turned to the base leg, it yawed sharply to the left and the left wing dropped. The aircraft then descended rapidly.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that during the turn from base to final leg at an altitude of 75 to 100 feet, the aircraft was buffeting and beginning to stall. He realized he would not be able to reach the runway and subsequently crash-landed in a vacant lot.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the left engine after the accident revealed no evidence to indicate precrash failure or malfunction of the engine.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was the pilot-in-command's improper approach planning and premature extension of the landing gear, resulting in the flight being unable to maintain sufficient altitude and airspeed to reach the runway. The loss of engine power on one engine was a factor.